Iconic RS 4 Avant is back

"In common with all our RS models, it blends vast power output with superlative everyday utility". Compared to the Audi A4 Avant, the wheel arches are 30 millimetres wider and are given added emphasis by the quattro blisters. The show vehicle is finished in pearl-effect Nogaro Blue - a colour that was available on the first-generation of RS4.

But the new S5-sourced 2.9-litre unit produces 444bhp and a massive 600Nm of torque - that's more power than the V8 ever produced, and enough to get the Avant from rest to 62mph in 4.1 seconds. All the torque produced, is available as low down in the rev range as 1,900rpm going right up to 5,000rpm.

Despite dropping from a V8, the V6, with its higher torque output available between 1900-5000rpm, is able to cover the 0-100km/h sprint in just 4.1 seconds. The top speed is 250 kph.

The power of the 2.9 TFSI biturbo is supplied to the permanent all-wheel drive via an eight-speed tiptronic transmission with optimised ratios.

While RS4s are limited to 155mph from the factory, the addition of an RS dynamic package will see its top speed shoot up to 174mph. With up to 32.1mpg and emissions as low as 199g per kilometre of Carbon dioxide possible meanwhile, it's - on paper at least - much more efficient than the old auto.

On the inside, the Audi RS4 Avant has been fitted with sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, illuminated door sills. Audi also offers a rear sport differential enabling torque division between the rear wheels for enhanced handling adjustability, and in the United Kingdom this feature is standard.

The new model will go on sale in Europe early in 2018, with a potential Australian introduction likely to take place later that year. The Virtual Cockpit and HUD now also gain the ability to display RS specific information such as g-force without your eyes having to leave the road. The styling packages gloss black, carbon with aluminium attachments and carbon with black attachments provide further scope for customisation.